Christmas PastMon, 24 Dec 2018 04:29:51 +0000Mon, 20 May 2019 06:14:38 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://christmaspast.media
enhttp://christmaspast.mediachristmaspastpodcast@gmail.com (christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/d/a/5/2/da527faaa5f3ed15/itunes-art-1400-min.jpgChristmas PastBrian Earlchristmascleanchristmaspastpodcast@gmail.comepisodic035: Christmas 2018Christmas 2018Mon, 24 Dec 2018 04:29:51 +0000In a few short days, Christmas of 2018 will belong to Christmas Past. So in this final episode of the 2018 Christmas season, Brian looks back at some of the news and trends that defined this year's Christmas. There's also a little year-end wrap up for the show and the world of Christmas podcasts in general.

Thank you all for being part of the 2018 season of Christmas Past! Everyone who listened, told a friend, shared a memory, participated in the Facebook group, and engaged on other social media.

I wish you all a very merry Christmas!

Music in this Episode

"Deck the Hall B" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>In a few short days, Christmas of 2018 will belong to Christmas Past. So in this final episode of the 2018 Christmas season, Brian looks back at some of the news and trends that defined this year's Christmas. There's also a little year-end wrap up for the show and the world of Christmas podcasts in general.

Thank you all for being part of the 2018 season of Christmas Past! Everyone who listened, told a friend, shared a memory, participated in the Facebook group, and engaged on other social media.

I wish you all a very merry Christmas!

Music in this Episode

"Deck the Hall B" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>06:01cleanIn a few short days, Christmas of 2018 will belong to Christmas Past. So in this final episode of the 2018 Christmas season, Brian looks back at some of the news and trends that defined this year's Christmas. There's also a little year-end wrap up for the show and the world of Christmas podcasts in general. 35fullBrian Earl034: Christmas Memories 2018Christmas Memories 2018Sat, 22 Dec 2018 05:29:48 +0000It's my favorite episode of the Christmas season: the one dedicated to you sharing your favorite Christmas memories and traditions. Thank you to everyone to shared a part of their Christmas with us in this episode!

]]>It's my favorite episode of the Christmas season: the one dedicated to you sharing your favorite Christmas memories and traditions. Thank you to everyone to shared a part of their Christmas with us in this episode!

]]>23:47cleanIt's my favorite episode of the Christmas season: the one dedicated to you sharing your favorite Christmas memories and traditions. Thank you to everyone to shared a part of their Christmas with us in this episode! 34fullBrian EarlBonus: Listener Mail and Christmas MemoriesBonus: Listener Mail and Christmas MemoriesThu, 20 Dec 2018 08:26:12 +0000In this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories.

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>In this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories.

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>23:17noIn this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories. bonusBrian EarlBonus: Listener Mail and Christmas MemoriesBonus: Listener Mail and Christmas MemoriesThu, 20 Dec 2018 08:26:12 +0000In this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories.

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>In this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories.

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" - Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>In this bonus episode, Brian answers questions from the listener mailbag, and we also here a a few Christmas memories. bonusBrian Earl033: NORAD Tracks Santa ClausNORAD Tracks SantaWed, 19 Dec 2018 06:55:58 +0000In 1955, a misplaced phone call unwittingly created an annual Christmas tradition. It's a story shrouded in a bit of mystery, a lot of Christmas spirit, and a sworn duty to ensure Santa’s safe passage through open airspace. Find out why NORAD tracks Santa on Christmas Eve.

Music in this episode

"Escape"— Chris Holmes, via Free Music Archive

"A Little Powder"— Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Rabbit Hole"— Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Western Greb"— Chad Crouch, via Free Music Archive

"Wish Background"— Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>In 1955, a misplaced phone call unwittingly created an annual Christmas tradition. It's a story shrouded in a bit of mystery, a lot of Christmas spirit, and a sworn duty to ensure Santa’s safe passage through open airspace. Find out why NORAD tracks Santa on Christmas Eve.

Music in this episode

"Escape"— Chris Holmes, via Free Music Archive

"A Little Powder"— Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Rabbit Hole"— Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Western Greb"— Chad Crouch, via Free Music Archive

"Wish Background"— Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

]]>10:32cleantracker,santa,noradIn 1955, a misplaced phone call unwittingly created an annual Christmas tradition. It's a story shrouded in a bit of mystery, a lot of Christmas spirit, and a sworn duty to ensure Santa’s safe passage through open airspace. Find out why NORAD tracks Santa on Christmas Eve. 33fullBrian Earl032: The War on ChristmasThe War on ChristmasSun, 16 Dec 2018 07:09:56 +0000Shortly after Thanksgiving, certain cable news and talk radio pundits remind you that it’s that it’s time once again to be outraged. Because sinister forces are working to take Christmas away from you. Is there really a war on Christmas? Listen to this episode and then judge for yourself.

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Shortly after Thanksgiving, certain cable news and talk radio pundits remind you that it’s that it’s time once again to be outraged. Because sinister forces are working to take Christmas away from you. Is there really a war on Christmas? Listen to this episode and then judge for yourself.

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>16:28cleanwar,on,christmasShortly after Thanksgiving, certain cable news and talk radio pundits remind you that it’s that it’s time once again to be outraged. Because sinister forces are working to take Christmas away from you. Is there really a war on Christmas? Listen to this episode and then judge for yourself. 32fullBrian Earl031: Learning the Truth About Santa ClausLearning the Truth About Santa ClausThu, 13 Dec 2018 08:01:45 +0000Usually on Christmas Past, I share your Christmas memories. But this episode is dedicated to me sharing one of mine. It’s a memory you have too, in some form, because it’s inevitable for everyone who grows up celebrating Christmas and believing in Santa Claus. It should go without saying that this episode is for the grownups only!

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Usually on Christmas Past, I share your Christmas memories. But this episode is dedicated to me sharing one of mine. It’s a memory you have too, in some form, because it’s inevitable for everyone who grows up celebrating Christmas and believing in Santa Claus. It should go without saying that this episode is for the grownups only!

Music in this episode

"Relaxing Piano Music" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>14:29cleanUsually on Christmas Past, I share your Christmas memories. But this episode is dedicated to me sharing one of mine. It’s a memory you have too, in some form, because it’s inevitable for everyone who grows up celebrating Christmas and believing in Santa Claus. It should go without saying that this episode is for the grownups only!31fullBrian Earl030: The Twelve Days of Christmas (the song)The Twelve Days of Christmas (the song)Mon, 10 Dec 2018 06:34:08 +0000Twelve days of Christmas? What's up with that? And who ever thought turtle doves and partridges make good Christmas gifts? (Come to think of it, just what the heck is a turtle dove?) We'll get to the bottom of it all with the help of language professor Mark Sundaram.

Music in this episode

"Hark the Herald Angels Sing" — Doug Hammer, via Feels Like Christmas

"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

"Twelve Days of Christmas" — Inner Splendor, via Feels Like Christmas

"Gentle Marimbas" — Podington Bear, via Free Music Archive

"Thannoid" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>Twelve days of Christmas? What's up with that? And who ever thought turtle doves and partridges make good Christmas gifts? (Come to think of it, just what the heck is a turtle dove?) We'll get to the bottom of it all with the help of language professor Mark Sundaram.

Music in this episode

"Hark the Herald Angels Sing" — Doug Hammer, via Feels Like Christmas

"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

"Twelve Days of Christmas" — Inner Splendor, via Feels Like Christmas

"Gentle Marimbas" — Podington Bear, via Free Music Archive

"Thannoid" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>10:57cleanof,christmas,days,12,twelveTwelve days of Christmas? What's up with that? And who ever thought turtle doves and partridges make good Christmas gifts? (Come to think of it, just what the heck is a turtle dove?) We'll get to the bottom of it all with the help of language professor Mark Sundaram.30fullBrian EarlBonus: Behind the Scenes with Welcome to Tinsel TownBonus: Behind the Scenes with Welcome to Tinsel TownSat, 08 Dec 2018 20:50:58 +0000Welcome to Tinsel Town is a new Christmas adventure podcast that arrived on Thanksgiving Day. Join me as I talk to Jenna Knorr and Adam Ganong to discuss the making of a new audio drama. And then check out their show wherever you get podcasts, or https://trianglecontent.com/podcasts/welcometotinseltown/

Music in this Episode

"Night Light" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Welcome to Tinsel Town is a new Christmas adventure podcast that arrived on Thanksgiving Day. Join me as I talk to Jenna Knorr and Adam Ganong to discuss the making of a new audio drama. And then check out their show wherever you get podcasts, or https://trianglecontent.com/podcasts/welcometotinseltown/

Music in this Episode

"Night Light" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>19:25cleanWelcome to Tinsel Town is a new Christmas adventure podcast that arrived on Thanksgiving Day. Join me as I talk to Jenna Knorr and Adam Ganong to discuss the making of a new audio drama. bonusBrian Earl029: The WPIX Yule LogThe WPIX Yule LogFri, 07 Dec 2018 07:01:34 +0000Few things are more Christmassy than the flickering glow of a log on the fire. Even when that fire is experienced on a TV or device screen, it still conjures up a cozy and festive atmosphere. A New York city TV station introduced the televised Yule Log in 1966. What began as a quirky experiment would eventually take on a life of its own!

Music in this Episode

"Let There be Joy" — Cathy Oakes, via Feels Like Christmas

"Early Morning Snowfall" — Chuck Brown, via Feels Like Christmas

"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

"Angels We Have Heard" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Few things are more Christmassy than the flickering glow of a log on the fire. Even when that fire is experienced on a TV or device screen, it still conjures up a cozy and festive atmosphere. A New York city TV station introduced the televised Yule Log in 1966. What began as a quirky experiment would eventually take on a life of its own!

Music in this Episode

"Let There be Joy" — Cathy Oakes, via Feels Like Christmas

"Early Morning Snowfall" — Chuck Brown, via Feels Like Christmas

"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

"Angels We Have Heard" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>10:02cleantv,log,fireplace,yule,wpixFew things are more Christmassy than the flickering glow of a log on the fire. Even when that fire is experienced on a TV or device screen, it still conjures up a cozy and festive atmosphere. A New York city TV station introduced the televised Yule Log in 1966. What began as a quirky experiment would eventually take on a life of its own!29fullBrian Earl028: Miracle on 34th StreetMiracle on 34th StreetTue, 04 Dec 2018 06:43:33 +0000Miracle on 34th Street doesn't fit today's standards for what makes a movie Christmassy. It involved a cynical child and a Santa Claus who gets locked up in a mental health institution before undergoing a public psych hearing. Not only that, but the movie was released in June of 1947. And yet, it has gone on to become not only a beloved movie, but also a cherished tradition. How did that happen? We'll find out with the help of film critic Alonso Duralde.

Music in this episode

“Losing Love” — Dexter Britain

"Hard Boiled" — Kevin MacLeod

"Cherry Blossom" — Kevin MacLeod

"Sad Marimba Planet" — Lee Rosevere

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" — Jimmy Atkins

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Miracle on 34th Street doesn't fit today's standards for what makes a movie Christmassy. It involved a cynical child and a Santa Claus who gets locked up in a mental health institution before undergoing a public psych hearing. Not only that, but the movie was released in June of 1947. And yet, it has gone on to become not only a beloved movie, but also a cherished tradition. How did that happen? We'll find out with the help of film critic Alonso Duralde.

Music in this episode

“Losing Love” — Dexter Britain

"Hard Boiled" — Kevin MacLeod

"Cherry Blossom" — Kevin MacLeod

"Sad Marimba Planet" — Lee Rosevere

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" — Jimmy Atkins

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>11:47cleanmovies,on,christmas,street,miracle,34thMiracle on 34th Street doesn't fit today's standards for what makes a movie Christmassy. It involved a cynical child and a Santa Claus who gets locked up in a mental health institution before undergoing a public psych hearing. Not only that, but the movie was released in June of 1947. And yet, it has gone on to become not only a beloved movie, but also a cherished tradition. How did that happen? We'll find out with the help of film critic Alonso Duralde.28fullBrian Earl027: Fruit cakeFruitcakeSat, 01 Dec 2018 07:40:42 +0000It's the Christmas cake we love to hate. But why? How did a cake steeped in history and tradition, tied closely to the Christmas celebration (and often soaked in booze, no less) go on to become so widely mocked?

Music in this Episode:

Night Day: Dan Yan Key

Blue Highway: Poddington Bear

Dowl: Poddington Bear

Wish Background: Kevin MacLeod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>It's the Christmas cake we love to hate. But why? How did a cake steeped in history and tradition, tied closely to the Christmas celebration (and often soaked in booze, no less) go on to become so widely mocked?

Music in this Episode:

Night Day: Dan Yan Key

Blue Highway: Poddington Bear

Dowl: Poddington Bear

Wish Background: Kevin MacLeod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>13:05cleantoss,springs,fruitcake,manitouIt's the Christmas cake we love to hate. But why? How did a cake steeped in history and tradition, tied closely to the Christmas celebration (and often soaked in booze, no less) go on to become so widely mocked? 27fullBrian Earl026: Did Charles Dickens Really "Invent" Christmas?Did Charles Dickens Really "Invent" Christmas?Wed, 28 Nov 2018 06:25:28 +0000Christmas wouldn't be the same without the influence of Charles Dickens and his most famous work: A Christmas Carol. Some have even gone as far as saying he basically "invented" Christmas as we know it today. So...did he? In this episode, I get answers from the man himself!

Music in this Episode:

Traditional tune played by band at Dickens Fair

Snowfall: Shady Dave

Wish Background: Kevin MacCleod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Christmas wouldn't be the same without the influence of Charles Dickens and his most famous work: A Christmas Carol. Some have even gone as far as saying he basically "invented" Christmas as we know it today. So...did he? In this episode, I get answers from the man himself!

Music in this Episode:

Traditional tune played by band at Dickens Fair

Snowfall: Shady Dave

Wish Background: Kevin MacCleod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>12:30cleancharles,a,christmas,era,carol,dickens,victorian,victoriansChristmas wouldn't be the same without the influence of Charles Dickens and his most famous work: A Christmas Carol. Some have even gone as far as saying he basically "invented" Christmas as we know it today. So...did he? In this episode, I get answers from the man himself!26fullBrian Earl025: Why do we say "Merry Christmas"?Why do we say "Merry Christmas"?Sun, 25 Nov 2018 08:09:37 +0000Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent.

Music in this Episode:

Gaena: Blue Dot Sessions

March: Kai Engel

Delicant: Podington Bear

Suppose it Is: Podington Bear

Wish Background: Kevin MacCleod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent.

Music in this Episode:

Gaena: Blue Dot Sessions

March: Kai Engel

Delicant: Podington Bear

Suppose it Is: Podington Bear

Wish Background: Kevin MacCleod

Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.

]]>11:37cleanchristmas,traditions,merryHave you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent. fullBrian EarlBonus: A Podcast Family Thanksgiving 2018Bonus: A Podcast Family Thanksgiving 2018Thu, 22 Nov 2018 03:07:27 +0000We're kicking off the 2018 season with a Thanksgiving family gathering of Christmas podcasters. Join members of the Christmas Podcast Network as we share our thoughts about one of our favorite topics: Christmas music!

]]>We're kicking off the 2018 season with a Thanksgiving family gathering of Christmas podcasters. Join members of the Christmas Podcast Network as we share our thoughts about one of our favorite topics: Christmas music!

]]>35:10cleanmusic,podcasts,christmas,carolsWe're kicking off the 2018 season with a Thanksgiving family gathering of Christmas podcasters. Join members of the Christmas Podcast Network as we share our thoughts about one of our favorite topics: Christmas music!fullBrian EarlChristmas Past 2018 Season TrailerChristmas Past 2018 Season TrailerThu, 08 Nov 2018 05:46:13 +0000Christmas Past will be back again on Thanksgiving Day to kick off the 2018 season. You can expect an episode to arrive every few days all the way up till Christmas day. Join me for more of the fascinating backstories behind your favorite Christmas traditions and of course more of your Christmas memories. It’s not too late to be on the show this season.Record a voice memo on your phone and send it tochristmaspastpodcast@gmail.com. Or leave a voicemail on my google voice line at650-394-7162.

Come to the http://christmaspast.media for articles, quizzes, videos, and much more, including links to the new Facebook group and YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. And if you leave a review on Apple Podcasts / iTunes, I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. Email me for details.

See you on Thanksgiving Day!

Music in this episode

Silver by Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>Christmas Past will be back again on Thanksgiving Day to kick off the 2018 season. You can expect an episode to arrive every few days all the way up till Christmas day. Join me for more of the fascinating backstories behind your favorite Christmas traditions and of course more of your Christmas memories. It’s not too late to be on the show this season. Record a voice memo on your phone and send it to christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com. Or leave a voicemail on my google voice line at 650-394-7162.

Come to the http://christmaspast.media for articles, quizzes, videos, and much more, including links to the new Facebook group and YouTube channel.

Subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. And if you leave a review on Apple Podcasts / iTunes, I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. Email me for details.

See you on Thanksgiving Day!

Music in this episode

Silver by Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>02:36cleanpodcast,stories,story,christmas,traditionsChristmas Past will be back again on Thanksgiving Day to kick off the 2018 season. You can expect an episode to arrive every few days all the way up till Christmas day. Join me for more of the fascinating backstories behind your favorite Christmas traditions and of course more of your Christmas memories. trailerBrian EarlBonus: Trick or Treat! I'm going as Tis the Podcast for Halloween Bonus: Trick or Treat! I'm going as Tis the Podcast for Halloween Wed, 31 Oct 2018 07:00:00 +0000This Halloween, Christmas Past is masquerading as one of my favorite podcasts: Tis the Podcast. Hosts Anthony and Julia join me for a Halloween crossover as we discuss everyone's favorite ghost story: A Christmas Carol. We cover the 1984 made-for-TV version starring George C. Scott.

Tis the Podcast co-host Thom was with us in spirit (as in the spirit of Christmas Future), because he was busy working on a surprise. My lips are sealed for now, but I'll have more to say about that sometime soon.

Music in this episode

Turning by Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>This Halloween, Christmas Past is masquerading as one of my favorite podcasts: Tis the Podcast. Hosts Anthony and Julia join me for a Halloween crossover as we discuss everyone's favorite ghost story: A Christmas Carol. We cover the 1984 made-for-TV version starring George C. Scott.

Tis the Podcast co-host Thom was with us in spirit (as in the spirit of Christmas Future), because he was busy working on a surprise. My lips are sealed for now, but I'll have more to say about that sometime soon.

Music in this episode

Turning by Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

]]>54:07cleanThis Halloween, Christmas Past is masquerading as one of my favorite podcasts: Tis the Podcast. Hosts Anthony and Julia join me for a Halloween crossover as we discuss everyone's favorite ghost story: A Christmas Carol. We cover the 1984 made-for-TV version starring George C. Scott. bonusBrian Earl024: Christmas in July024: Christmas in JulySun, 15 Jul 2018 07:00:00 +0000It's the basis for summer sales, Hallmark movie marathons, and memes and hashtags strewn across social media. But what exactly is Christmas in July? And where did it come from?

Music from this episode

"Turning" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Tessalit" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Heliotrope" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>It's the basis for summer sales, Hallmark movie marathons, and memes and hashtags strewn across social media. But what exactly is Christmas in July? And where did it come from? Music from this episode

"Turning" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Tessalit" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

"Heliotrope" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>12:38noIt's the basis for summer sales, Hallmark movie marathons, and memes and hashtags strewn across social media. But what exactly is Christmas in July? And where did it come from? 24fullBrian Earl023: Christmas 2017Christmas 2017Sun, 24 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000The this final episode of the season, we take a look back at Christmas of 2017 and do a year-end wrap up for the show.

Music from this episode

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>06:17cleanThe this final episode of the season, we take a look back at Christmas of 2017 and do a year-end wrap up for the show.223fullBrian Earl022: Christmas Memories 2017Christmas Memories 2017Fri, 22 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000By popular request, this episode is dedicated solely to your Christmas memories!

Thank you to this episode's contributors

Claudia, in Italy

Ana and Hector, in Mexico

Jake, in Australia

Anne, in California

Jessie, in Pennsylvania

Julie, in New York

Rose Marie, in Chicago

Keith, in New York

Andrea, in Washington (host of the baking podcast, Preheated)

Gabe, in Michigan (host of the gaming podcast, Inter Party Conflict)

Music from this episode

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>By popular request, this episode is dedicated solely to your Christmas memories! Thank you to this episode's contributors

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>23:28cleanBy popular request, this episode is dedicated solely to your Christmas memories!222fullBrian Earl021: A Christmas StoryA Christmas StoryWed, 20 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000In 1983, moviegoers were introduced to little Ralphie Parker. And even though A Christmas Story looms large today with 24-hour marathons, sequels, and merchandise, but it was a slow climb to the top.

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>In 1983, moviegoers were introduced to little Ralphie Parker. And even though A Christmas Story looms large today with 24-hour marathons, sequels, and merchandise, but it was a slow climb to the top. Fun Links

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>11:19cleanIn 1983, moviegoers were introduced to little Ralphie Parker. And even though A Christmas Story looms large today with 24-hour marathons, sequels, and merchandise, but it was a slow climb to the top.221fullBrian Earl020: EggnogEggnogMon, 18 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000We've drunk some form of eggnog since medieval times. But it didn't become a Christmas beverage until it reached America.

Fun Links

Tis the Podcast: Check out the gang from Tis the Podcast. They share their favorite Christmas movie memories in this episode

Stay connected to Christmas Past

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>11:30cleanWe've drunk some form of eggnog since medieval times. But it didn't become a Christmas beverage until it reached America.220fullBrian Earl019: La Buche du NoelLa Buche du NoelThu, 14 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000La buche du Noel is a festively eye-catching dessert from France. And it wouldn't have been possible if not for a nineteenth century urbanization trend and the widespread availability of cheap sugar.

Stay connected to Christmas Past

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>La buche du Noel is a festively eye-catching dessert from France. And it wouldn't have been possible if not for a nineteenth century urbanization trend and the widespread availability of cheap sugar. Fun Links

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>11:06cleanLa buche du Noel is a festively eye-catching dessert from France. And it wouldn't have been possible if not for a nineteenth century urbanization trend and the widespread availability of cheap sugar.219fullBrian Earl018: The NutcrackerThe NutcrackerMon, 11 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000Unlike other Christmas traditions that Americans import from abroad, The Nutcracker didn't become a Christmas tradition until it reached America. And as far as Christmas traditions go, it's one of the newer ones we have.

Music from this episode

Stay connected to Christmas Past

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>Unlike other Christmas traditions that Americans import from abroad, The Nutcracker didn't become a Christmas tradition until it reached America. And as far as Christmas traditions go, it's one of the newer ones we have. Fun Links

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>10:34cleanUnlike other Christmas traditions that Americans import from abroad, The Nutcracker didn't become a Christmas tradition until it reached America. And as far as Christmas traditions go, it's one of the newer ones we have.218fullBrian Earl017: HollyHollyThu, 07 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000Holly is inseparable from Christmas. But its use in wintertime celebrations goes back even farther than Christmas itself.

Fun Links

The Story Behind: Podcast by Emily Prokop, who shares a Christmas memory in this episode

Stay connected to Christmas Past

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

Be sure to follow Christmas Past on social media. I'm posting fun extra Christmassy content on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I also sometimes post things to Pinterest. You can send me messages in any of those places, or you can write me at christmaspastpodcast AT gmail DOT COM. I reply to every email I get!

And please rate and review the show on iTunes. It's a quick and painless way to show support. It takes less than a minute, and it helps more people find the show.

]]>08:55cleanHolly is inseparable from Christmas. But its use in wintertime celebrations goes back even farther than Christmas itself.217fullBrian Earl016: Golden Age Christmas TV CartoonsGolden Age Christmas TV CartoonsMon, 04 Dec 2017 08:30:00 +0000In 1962, the first Christmas cartoon created for television debuted. And even decades later, nothing can compete with the classic cartoons from that era.

Fun Links

Weird Christmas: We heard from Craig Kringle and his podcast, Weird Christmas

]]>11:48cleanIn 1962, the first Christmas cartoon created for television debuted. And even decades later, nothing can compete with the classic cartoons from that era.216fullBrian EarlBonus: The House of Seven Santas, Part 1Bonus: The House of the Seven Santas, Part 1Fri, 01 Dec 2017 08:00:00 +0000In a first-of-its-kind crossover collaboration, seven Christmas podcasters are coming together to read you the classic Christmas story, The House of the Seven Santas, by John Kendrick Bangs.

Each podcast will present a few minutes of the story. You'll hear seven different Christmas podcasts in all to hear the story in its entirety. Here's the full list:

]]>08:17cleanIn a first-of-its-kind crossover collaboration, seven Christmas podcasters are coming together to read you the classic Christmas story, The House of the Seven Santas, by John Kendrick Bangs.
Each podcast will present a few minutes of the story. You'll hear seven different Christmas podcasts in all to hear the story in its entirety. 2bonusBrian Earl015: Christmas LightsChristmas LightsThu, 30 Nov 2017 08:30:00 +0000The first Christmas lights appeared in 1882, and would forever change the scenery at Christmas time.

]]>11:07cleanThe first Christmas lights appeared in 1882, and would forever change the scenery at Christmas time.215fullBrian Earl014: Department Store SantasDepartment Store SantasMon, 27 Nov 2017 08:30:00 +0000When the first department store Santa appeared in 1890, it wasn't just a cross section of Christmas and commerce. It was also a major step in the evolution of Santa Claus.

]]>11:23cleanWhen the first department store Santa appeared in 1890, it wasn't just a cross section of Christmas and commerce. It was also a major step in the evolution of Santa Claus.214fullBrian Earl013: Christmas AdvertisementsChristmas AdvertisementsThu, 23 Nov 2017 08:30:00 +0000You may cringe at the idea that Christmas advertisements are a legit Christmas tradition. But they're undeniably part of the atmosphere of the season...and have an interesting history behind them.

Fun Links

Genuine Chit Chat: In this episode we hear from Mike, host of Genuine Chit Chat. Check him out on iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts

Music from this episode

]]>You may cringe at the idea that Christmas advertisements are a legit Christmas tradition. But they're undeniably part of the atmosphere of the season...and have an interesting history behind them. Fun Links

Genuine Chit Chat: In this episode we hear from Mike, host of Genuine Chit Chat. Check him out on iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts

]]>11:37cleanYou may cringe at the idea that Christmas advertisements are a legit Christmas tradition. But they're undeniably part of the atmosphere of the season...and have an interesting history behind them.213fullBrian EarlChristmas Past 2017 season trailerChristmas Past 2017 season trailerWed, 01 Nov 2017 07:00:00 +0000It's that time of year again! Christmas Past is getting ready to return for the 2017 Christmas season with a fresh batch of stories behind your favorite holiday traditions. Subscribe now so you won't miss any episodes this season.

The first episode arrives on Thanksgiving Day. And this season has in store more of what you've come to love: fascinating histories, interesting guests, and Christmas memories from listeners. You can share your own by recording a voice memo on your phone and sending it to christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

Follow along on social media by searching for Christmas Past podcast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

]]>It's that time of year again! Christmas Past is getting ready to return for the 2017 Christmas season with a fresh batch of stories behind your favorite holiday traditions. Subscribe now so you won't miss any episodes this season.

The first episode arrives on Thanksgiving Day. And this season has in store more of what you've come to love: fascinating histories, interesting guests, and Christmas memories from listeners. You can share your own by recording a voice memo on your phone and sending it to christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

Follow along on social media by searching for Christmas Past podcast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

]]>01:29cleanChristmas Past is getting ready to return for the 2017 Christmas season with a fresh batch of stories behind your favorite holiday traditions. The first episode arrives on Thanksgiving Day. And this season has in store more of what you've come to love: fascinating histories, interesting guests, and Christmas memories from listeners. You can share your own by recording a voice memo on your phone and sending it to christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com. 2trailerBrian Earl012: Christmas Day 2016Christmas Day 2016Sun, 25 Dec 2016 16:53:54 +0000For the final episode of 2016, we celebrate Christmas Day with Brian's family and take a look back at the 2016 Christmas season.

Thank you, everyone, for a wonderful first season of the podcast! I hope to be back again next year with more stories from Christmas Past.

Things will slow down on social media after today, but I'm not going anywhere, you can always find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or drop me a line at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2017!

]]>For the final episode of 2016, we celebrate Christmas Day with Brian's family and take a look back at the 2016 Christmas season.

Thank you, everyone, for a wonderful first season of the podcast! I hope to be back again next year with more stories from Christmas Past.

Things will slow down on social media after today, but I'm not going anywhere, you can always find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or drop me a line at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2017!

]]>06:01cleanFor the final episode of 2016, we celebrate Christmas Day with Brian's family and take a look back at the 2016 Christmas season.
Thank you, everyone, for a wonderful first season of the podcast! I hope to be back again next year with more stories from Christmas Past. 112fullBrian Earl011: Christmas Eve 2016Christmas Eve 2017Sat, 24 Dec 2016 14:30:23 +0000It's Christmas Eve! In our second-to-last episode of the season, Brian talks about his favorite Christmas Eve traditions and we hear from some of Brian's family members.

Subscribe on iTunes and visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes and extra content. Search for Christmas Past podcast on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

]]>It's Christmas Eve! In our second-to-last episode of the season, Brian talks about his favorite Christmas Eve traditions and we hear from some of Brian's family members.

Subscribe on iTunes and visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes and extra content. Search for Christmas Past podcast on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

]]>06:20cleanIt's Christmas Eve! In our second-to-last episode of the season, Brian talks about his favorite Christmas Eve traditions and we hear from some of Brian's family members.111fullBrian Earl010: Sugar PlumsSugar PlumsWed, 21 Dec 2016 05:00:53 +0000Even though you've heard mention of sugar plum every Christmas of your life, do you actually know what they are?

In this episode, we hear about the history of the sugar plum and how it came to be associated with Christmas.

We have two memories this episode! Both of them recall favorite childhood Christmas movies.

]]>10:21cleanEven though you've heard mention of sugar plum every Christmas of your life, do you actually know what they are? 110fullBrian Earl009: Old Time RadioOld Time RadioSat, 17 Dec 2016 05:29:56 +0000Getting tired of 24-hour Christmas movie marathons and stale cartoon specials? Take a trip back in time to the golden age of radio. You may like to check out the Christmas Old Time Radio podcast or search around Archive.org to continue your listening after this episode.

We hear from Chicago DJ Steve Darnall and some Christmas memories from Anna in California. I can't believe we're almost done with the first season of Christmas Past! One more full length episode to come, followed by two mini episodes on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

]]>Getting tired of 24-hour Christmas movie marathons and stale cartoon specials? Take a trip back in time to the golden age of radio. You may like to check out the Christmas Old Time Radio podcast or search around Archive.org to continue your listening after this episode.

We hear from Chicago DJ Steve Darnall and some Christmas memories from Anna in California. I can't believe we're almost done with the first season of Christmas Past! One more full length episode to come, followed by two mini episodes on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

]]>13:01cleanGetting tired of 24-hour Christmas movie marathons and stale cartoon specials? Take a trip back in time to the golden age of radio. 19fullBrian Earl008: Christmas CardsChristmas CardsTue, 13 Dec 2016 05:18:08 +0000Americans will send over a billion Christmas cards this year. Even in this age of instantaneous communication, the physical Christmas card is still inseparable from our modern holiday celebration. The Christmas card is an English invention. A man named Henry Cole is credited with creating the first commercially produced Christmas card in 1843. But more interesting are the social, economic, and technological factors that all came together at roughly the same time to enable the birth of the Christmas card.

In this episode we hear from Stephanie Boydell, curator of a special collection of greeting cards. And a Christmas memory from Annmarie in Massachusetts.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes, Google Play, or however you get your podcasts. Search for Christmas Past podcast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas fun. Find show notes and more info about the show at http://www.christmaspastpodcast.com.

]]>Americans will send over a billion Christmas cards this year. Even in this age of instantaneous communication, the physical Christmas card is still inseparable from our modern holiday celebration. The Christmas card is an English invention. A man named Henry Cole is credited with creating the first commercially produced Christmas card in 1843. But more interesting are the social, economic, and technological factors that all came together at roughly the same time to enable the birth of the Christmas card.

In this episode we hear from Stephanie Boydell, curator of a special collection of greeting cards. And a Christmas memory from Annmarie in Massachusetts.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes, Google Play, or however you get your podcasts. Search for Christmas Past podcast on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas fun. Find show notes and more info about the show at http://www.christmaspastpodcast.com.

]]>11:48cleanAmericans will send over a billion Christmas cards this year. Even in this age of instantaneous communication, the physical Christmas card is still inseparable from our modern holiday celebration. The Christmas card is an English invention. A man named Henry Cole is credited with creating the first commercially produced Christmas card in 1843. But more interesting are the social, economic, and technological factors that all came together at roughly the same time to enable the birth of the Christmas card.18fullBrian Earl007: Wrapping PaperWrapping PaperFri, 09 Dec 2016 15:09:31 +0000The appearance of festive gift wrap in stores is one of the first signs that the Christmas season is here. But wrapping Christmas gifts is a relatively new custom.

In this episode of Christmas Past, we learn about the surprisingly interesting history of wrapping paper, with some help from Pat Lavin of the Framingham History Center.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast: on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And visit www.christmaspastpodcast for show notes and other extra content.

]]>The appearance of festive gift wrap in stores is one of the first signs that the Christmas season is here. But wrapping Christmas gifts is a relatively new custom.

In this episode of Christmas Past, we learn about the surprisingly interesting history of wrapping paper, with some help from Pat Lavin of the Framingham History Center.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast: on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And visit www.christmaspastpodcast for show notes and other extra content.

]]>11:01cleanThe appearance of festive gift wrap in stores is one of the first signs that the Christmas season is here. But wrapping Christmas gifts is a relatively new custom.1full006: Rudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerRudolph the Red-Nosed ReindeerMon, 05 Dec 2016 15:21:23 +0000The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a classic underdog story, but maybe not the way you think. In this episode, we discuss the unlikely journey of Robert L. May from workaday copywriter to creator of an icon.

In this episode we'll hear from Peter Carini, a librarian at Dartmouth College, which holds a collection of May's work. And we'll hear a Christmas memory from Kathy in New Jersey.

Don't forget to subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes, Google Play, or however you get your podcasts.

Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas history and vintage Christmas content.

]]>The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a classic underdog story, but maybe not the way you think. In this episode, we discuss the unlikely journey of Robert L. May from workaday copywriter to creator of an icon.

In this episode we'll hear from Peter Carini, a librarian at Dartmouth College, which holds a collection of May's work. And we'll hear a Christmas memory from Kathy in New Jersey.

Don't forget to subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes, Google Play, or however you get your podcasts.

Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas history and vintage Christmas content.

]]>11:25cleanThe story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a classic underdog story, but maybe not the way you think. In this episode, we discuss the unlikely journey of Robert L. May from workaday copywriter to creator of an icon.16fullBrian Earl005: Letters to SantaLetters to SantaThu, 01 Dec 2016 15:28:49 +0000The history of writing letters to Santa has some strange surprises in store for us.

In this episode we hear from Gus Ruiz from the US Postal Service, Nancy Pope from the Smithsonian Institution's Postal Museum, and a Christmas Memory from Kenny in Ontario.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes. Write me at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com

]]>The history of writing letters to Santa has some strange surprises in store for us.

In this episode we hear from Gus Ruiz from the US Postal Service, Nancy Pope from the Smithsonian Institution's Postal Museum, and a Christmas Memory from Kenny in Ontario.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes. Write me at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com

]]>12:30cleanThe history of writing letters to Santa has some strange surprises in store for us.
In this episode we hear from Gus Ruiz from the US Postal Service, Nancy Pope from the Smithsonian Institution's Postal Museum, and a Christmas Memory from Kenny in Ontario.
Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes. Write me at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com15fullBrian Earl004: Gingerbread HousesGingerbread HousesSun, 27 Nov 2016 17:15:26 +0000For centuries, gingerbread has been connected with all kinds of celebrations and holidays. And what could be more Christmassy than a gingerbread house? In this episode, we look at the history of gingerbread and the somewhat mysterious origins of the gingerbread house.

We'll hear from my mom, who made a gingerbread house every year when I was growing up. We'll also hear from Melissa Ferrar from San Francisco's Fairmont Hotel, which builds a life size gingerbread house annually.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes.

]]>For centuries, gingerbread has been connected with all kinds of celebrations and holidays. And what could be more Christmassy than a gingerbread house? In this episode, we look at the history of gingerbread and the somewhat mysterious origins of the gingerbread house.

We'll hear from my mom, who made a gingerbread house every year when I was growing up. We'll also hear from Melissa Ferrar from San Francisco's Fairmont Hotel, which builds a life size gingerbread house annually.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get your podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Visit www.christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes.

]]>10:29cleanFor centuries, gingerbread has been connected with all kinds of celebrations and holidays. And what could be more Christmassy than a gingerbread house? In this episode, we look at the history of gingerbread and the somewhat mysterious origins of the gingerbread house.14fullBrian Earl003: Santa Claus, Part 3Santa Claus, Part 3Wed, 23 Nov 2016 16:02:16 +0000We're finishing off the series about Santa with a look at what happened to the legend when it reached America. The Santa we know today is largely an American invention, based on the Dutch legend of Sinter Klaas. Dr. Bruce David Forbes joins one last time to tell us about the American contributions that put the finishing touches on Santa.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get podcasts. Leave a review on iTunes, if you like what you hear. You can reach me at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

]]>We're finishing off the series about Santa with a look at what happened to the legend when it reached America. The Santa we know today is largely an American invention, based on the Dutch legend of Sinter Klaas. Dr. Bruce David Forbes joins one last time to tell us about the American contributions that put the finishing touches on Santa.

Subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes or however you get podcasts. Leave a review on iTunes, if you like what you hear. You can reach me at christmaspastpodcast@gmail.com.

]]>12:46cleanWe're finishing off the series about Santa with a look at what happened to the legend when it reached America. The Santa we know today is largely an American invention, based on the Dutch legend of Sinter Klaas. Dr. Bruce David Forbes joins one last time to tell us about the American contributions that put the finishing touches on Santa. 13fullBrian Earl002: Santa Claus, Part 2Santa Claus, Part 2Sat, 19 Nov 2016 21:20:14 +0000Continuing where we left off in part 1, we continue exploring the legend of St. Nicholas. This time, we look at how many cultures left their own imprint on the legend as it spread across Europe.

Once again, I'm joined by professor and author Dr. Bruce David Forbes. We also hear our first Christmas memory of the season from Hope in Massachusetts. You can submit a memory by recording a voice memo on your phone and sending it to christmaspastpodcast at gmail dot com

Subscribe on iTunes or wherever you find podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And visit christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes and extra content.

]]>Continuing where we left off in part 1, we continue exploring the legend of St. Nicholas. This time, we look at how many cultures left their own imprint on the legend as it spread across Europe.

Once again, I'm joined by professor and author Dr. Bruce David Forbes. We also hear our first Christmas memory of the season from Hope in Massachusetts. You can submit a memory by recording a voice memo on your phone and sending it to christmaspastpodcast at gmail dot com

Subscribe on iTunes or wherever you find podcasts. Search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And visit christmaspastpodcast.com for show notes and extra content.

]]>10:21cleanContinuing where we left off in part 1, we continue exploring the legend of St. Nicholas. This time, we look at how many cultures left their own imprint on the legend as it spread across Europe. 12fullBrian Earl001: Santa Claus, Part 1Santa Claus, Part 1Tue, 15 Nov 2016 05:00:00 +0000We're kicking off the 2016 season with a 3-part series on the evolution of St. Nicholas to Santa Claus. Most episodes this season are for the whole family, but this series is just for the grownups.

In this episode, I cover the life of the historical St. Nicholas, a 4th century bishop from Myra (modern day Turkey), and the legends that followed his death.

Don't forget to subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes (or however you get podcasts) to make sure you don't miss any episodes this season. And search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas fun!

]]>We're kicking off the 2016 season with a 3-part series on the evolution of St. Nicholas to Santa Claus. Most episodes this season are for the whole family, but this series is just for the grownups.

In this episode, I cover the life of the historical St. Nicholas, a 4th century bishop from Myra (modern day Turkey), and the legends that followed his death.

Don't forget to subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes (or however you get podcasts) to make sure you don't miss any episodes this season. And search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas fun!

]]>12:08cleanIn this episode, I cover the life of the historical St. Nicholas, a 4th century bishop from Myra (modern day Turkey), and the legends that followed his death.
Don't forget to subscribe to Christmas Past on iTunes (or however you get podcasts) to make sure you don't miss any episodes this season. And search for "Christmas Past podcast" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more Christmas fun! 11fullBrian Earl000: Introducing the Christmas Past PodcastIntroducing the Christmas Past PodcastTue, 01 Nov 2016 14:08:57 +0000With the holiday season just weeks away, I thought now would be the perfect time to tell you about the Christmas Past podcast.

Subscribe now on iTunes or however you get your podcasts, and visit me at christmaspastpodcast.com

]]>With the holiday season just weeks away, I thought now would be the perfect time to tell you about the Christmas Past podcast.

Subscribe now on iTunes or however you get your podcasts, and visit me at christmaspastpodcast.com

]]>03:31cleanWith the holiday season just weeks away, I thought now would be the perfect time to tell you about the Christmas Past podcast.
Subscribe now on iTunes or however you get your podcasts, and visit me at christmaspastpodcast.com1fullBrian Earl